Google opens doors to Pakistan's digital future

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally launched the American technology company's first physical base in Islamabad on Tuesday, according to The Express Tribune. The event took place during a meeting with a team of nine representatives, headed by the firm's vice president for public policy, and a US diplomat also attended. The government presented the move as a step toward faster digital change, greater software exports and training for young people in an AI-led economy.

Farhan Qureshi, who leads Google's operations across Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand, said the move signalled faith in the country's digital prospects and talent. He added that the Chromebook assembly line built with local partners could help Pakistan emerge as a hardware exporter for the wider region. Wilson White, who briefed the prime minister, also said devices made locally could find buyers in neighbouring countries.

Google said its programmes had reached more than a million people with digital skills, including educators, learners, coders and content makers. The company credited its products with Rs3.9 trillion of economic value for local firms and families, and with supporting 965,000 jobs. Its local Chromebook line, launched with Tech Valley and Allied, has a target of 500,000 devices, and Google said 350,000 Career Certificate scholarships had been awarded since 2022.